Reynolds Price was an American author, poet, and playwright, born on February 1, 1933, in Macon, North Carolina. He is best known for his novels, particularly "A Long and Happy Life," which explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of Southern life. Price's writing often reflects his Southern roots and deep understanding of human emotions. In addition to his fiction, Price was a respected academic and taught at Duke University for many years. He received numerous awards for his literary work, including the O. Henry Award and the William Faulkner Award. Price passed away on January 20, 2011, leaving a significant impact on American literature.